Ar·chi·tec·ture - The art or practice of designing and constructing buildings.

Have you ever walked or drove past a building that stopped you in your tracks so you could marvel in the fresh, unique and interesting look? This happens to me all the time - right here in our very city! I love taking in the interesting angles, materials and textures, all brought together to form a beautiful and amazing composition. Building design is truly a work of art that requires an immense amount of planning, designing, and constructing. The amount of time between creating an idea for a building and finishing the final touches can take months or sometimes even years. Architecture has such a fantastic history to it, and I will most definitely dive into that in an upcoming post as well.

For now, I have compiled a list of Ottawa’s best architects and designers. Many of their buildings are familiar and you will most likely recognize some of them. Please note that the order I have placed these architects in is completely random and there is no form of hierarchy – I could never choose who is the best.

The pieces I have selected are a few of my favourite designs in Ottawa and the surrounding area. Enjoy!

1. Christopher Simmonds Architect

Christopher Simmonds believes that good design improves the quality of life.

His website states the following:

“We are highly skilled designers who bring curiosity, ingenuity and creative solutions to each project. Our work creates strong connections between interior spaces and the landscape, often resulting in new ways of experiencing a place.”

“With a strong appreciation for all design styles from contemporary to traditional, we pride ourself in creating exceptional homes and interiors that reflect each client’s taste and personality. The result is timeless, elegant architecture suited to the needs and lifestyles of the most discerning of clients.”

Amsted’s design-build services provide a one-stop solution for homeowners looking to renovate or build a new home.

Their website states the following:

“Our professional design and construction experts work together under one roof, creating a seamless process that saves you time and money. We also offer you opportunities to get actively involved in the renovation process so you can achieve a greater sense of pride in your home.”

Houry Avedissian mainly focuses on selecting custom residential projects and managing them from end to end, elegantly marrying architecture with interior design.

Her website states the following:

“Houry’s attention to detail is key, and the results speak for themselves, all the way down to the selection of unique fixtures and built-in furnishings that truly set her projects apart. Her work can be currently seen in Style Magazine.”

John Donkin is an award-winning architect interested in the development of innovative building forms especially suited to unique clients and unusual situations.

John’s website states the following:

“Our services range from initial conceptual design, obtaining permits, to construction oversight. Design counselling services are also available to help clients when buying, building or renovating their dream home.”

Rick Shean strives to bring the natural aesthetic into every project. His goal is to design unique homes that fit the needs and lifestyles of his clients. Rick creates beautiful, modern spaces that rely on use of the natural environment and manipulation of light.

Rick’s website states the following:

“Our philosophy for what makes beautiful buildings centers around bringing natural elements into modern spaces. At the core of our design, we believe in making use of the natural environment and surrounding site, manipulation of natural light and space and use of texture and natural materials.”

Design First Interiors believe that everything of lasting value begins with a design first.

Design First’s website states the following:

“We are distinguished by our belief that any exceptional interior starts with a Design First. By forming a personal relationship with each client, we ensure that unique wishes, needs and lifestyles are expertly transformed into living spaces that provide maximum enjoyment, function, exceptional craftsmanship and quality.”

Jim Bell’s proven design process begins with the critical Project Programming phase which captures the client’s vision, along with the technical aspects of the site and a plan to define the overall parameters and feasibility of the project.

Jim’s website states the following:

“A deep family heritage in residential design and building informs Jim Bell’s designs. His custom home, cottage and renovation designs aren’t only beautiful and functional but also efficient and cost-effective to construct. He takes the time to really listen to his clients and understand their needs, wants, vision and dreams.”

Malcolm Wildeboer says that a dwelling place, whether for a summer or a lifetime, will not fit you unless it reflects your personality and aspirations.

Malcolm’s website states the following:

“Whether we’re building a tree fort for our kids or designing an international embassy, we believe that a design process based on the needs of our clients results in architecture that produces an innate sense of place.”

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